Former Cubs 3rd baseman is going to sign a 3-year deal with the rival Milwaukee Brewers. Looks like the Cubs will get to see A-Ram a lot at Miller Park and Wrigley Field during the course of the next 3 years. Ramirez was the “top” offensive 3rd baseman in the National League in 2011. He earned the Silver Slugger Award for his .306 batting average, 26 HR’s and 93 RBI’s. Ramirez was excited to sign with the Brewers because he sees them as a playoff contender for the foreseeable future and he likes the idea of playing indoors at Miler Park for good chunks of the season when the weather is inclement.

The Cubs front office played the whole Ramirez departure very smartly. By offering to pick up his $16 million mutual option for 2012 which they knew he would decline, the club saved having to pay Ramirez the $2 million buyout. In addition, by offering Ramirez arbitration, the Cubs will also receive a “sandwich pick” in the 2012 draft since Ramirez is a Type B free agent.

It’s all good on the Cubs front these days. There is still a LOT of work to be done, but if the Cubs become players in the Prince Fielder sweepstakes, look for the Chicago’s north side to erupt in elation…